Head of communications, Ella Mitchell also thought that the foundation’s vigil had an important teaching for the younger Australians.

“The younger generation who perhaps haven’t really ever considered that the gun culture in Australia isn’t like that of other countries, like the US, can stop and ask themselves what kind of culture they want to live in,” she said.

The Alannah and Madeline foundation have launched a petition as Australia’s gun laws are quietly being weakened.

Firearm deaths remain at less than half of what they were before Port Arthur, and the Alannah and Madeline foundation are calling for urgent action to keep strong firearm laws.

“If [you] would prefer to live in a culture that is free from gun violence [you] can take the time to voice that opinion on the Foundation’s petition – via our website amf.org.au,” Ms Mitchell said.

The candlelight vigil was a poignant reminder of how far Australia has come in 20 years by continually reminding all Australians about the importance of strict gun control.